Sunday, February 14, 2016

The King's Challenge #215

The initial tunnel is dark, but mercifully short. We soon
enter a larger space, larger even than the antechamber where Hal and Marian
wait for our return.

It is an eye-opener, this space. Somewhere there must be
gaps in the rock, for there is light. Not sufficient to live naturally in, but
certainly enough for us to see each other by.

Kay puts a finger to his lips and points. Footprints in the
dust; small prints to fit those of a boy.

The space is otherwise clear. Once this is done with, it
will be a good idea to move everyone here. First, though, this terrible mission
must be done with. I do not like it; I
wish I am elsewhere.

Two rock arches opposite reveal there are other spaces. The prints
lead to both. Shrugging, Kay heads to the one on the right; a process of
elimination.

The cave beyond is a warren of nooks and niches, almost as
if someone long ago carved out sleeping spaces for a host. It is empty, though.
Staring at the recesses, I know we will be moving in. It is too practical to
ignore.

We move back to the large space and take to the left arch.

And there a massive astonishment awaits us. I gasp, for my
surprise is too great to contain. Kay whistles and comes to a halt.

“By the sands, this I never expected,” he utters.

Not in twenty lifetimes, no. This is true beauty; it is
inspiration and it is life-giving. Here we will survive as long as we need to,
until safety returns to the world.

A glorious sapphire lake is bathed in yellow light. Emerald fronds
waves in a soft breeze from damp ledges. A pristine white beach arcs around to
the left, while beautiful trees in full foliage overlook the waters from the
right.